Texas community resource
Initial Court Papers Service Guide for Family Law
TexasLawHelp.org
Free instructions and related forms for providing legally valid notice of initial papers in a Texas family-law case.
Information last checked:
How to get help
Identify every respondent, ask the clerk to issue citation, select a legally authorized service method, arrange delivery through a constable, sheriff, process server, clerk, or court-approved alternative as applicable, and confirm that proof of service is filed. Do not personally serve the initial papers.
Who this service helps
For a filer who has started a Texas divorce, custody, modification, child-name-change, paternity, or related family-law case and must serve each respondent unless that respondent properly answers or signs an applicable waiver.
Where this service is available
Service area: People handling eligible Texas legal matters, including residents and court users in Central Texas.
A service area describes where help is offered or who may be served. It is not necessarily the organization’s physical location.
Cost / fees
The guide and forms are free. Citation issuance, constable, sheriff, private process server, publication, mailing, copying, and legal-assistance costs may apply; fee relief may be available through the court.
About this service
The guide covers citation, personal service, waiver or answer alternatives, service by posting or publication when authorized, substituted service, proof of service, and case-specific waiver forms.
Other resources that may help
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